FDA veterinary group addressing large-animal fluid shortage

The U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) says it is working with drug companies to increase the availability of 3- to 5-liter bags of intravenous (IV) fluids intended for fluid therapy in large animals.

The current shortage has been triggered by several factors, according to a release from the FDA's Center for Veterinary Medicine, including increased demand and reduced manufacturing of the sizes most suitable for use in large animals. Because of a shortage of IV fluids for use in both human and veterinary medicine, some manufacturers have focused on manufacturing the smaller sizes for humans and small animals, which has contributed to a decrease in the availability of the 3-liter and 5-liter sizes used in large animals.

To address the immediate need, the FDA says it will temporarily exercise enforcement discretion over the importation of large-volume IV solutions currently marketed in foreign countries and labeled for use in those countries. Several companies are currently preparing to import 5-liter fluids into the United States.

The FDA says it is also working on a long-term plan to ensure continued availability of IV fluids, as well as ensuring that the products are produced and marketed in compliance with its regulations. The agency plans to update its IV fluids shortages page as more information becomes available.